Cutting fabric pieces for FPP
 

I have a windmill FPP quilt block that I am going to be using to make a quilt for my granddaughter. I want to cut all of my pieces of the various fabrics ahead of time so I can just sew and go. Is there any certain formula or direction for cutting the pieces for each section of the block to make sure that I will have enough coverage, thank you all :-)

I have not done this, but this looks like a good idea. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcyUOZS6YtE

It is easier for me to cut large squares so I know the size will fit over every part. Saves my sanity.

I don't fret over wasted fabric. What I do is measure the widest point going in each direction of the piece I need to cover, then cut a square or rectangle that is about 3/4" bigger than that.

Forget about saving fabric when doing paper piecing to keep it enjoyable.

Thanks for the video link. I meant to just have a quick look but ended up watching the whole thing. I like the concept.

I also do this. I use large pieces and make it easy

Most of the patterns I've used have included templates for cutting the fabric so that there was little waste.

RIght now I'm working on a PP called A Cog in a Wheel and it included templates to cut for the sections. As they were just paper, I found a ruler that fit the template. I also checked to see how much larger the template was to the actual piece and was able to downsize it just enough to still give me a little extra so not wasting as much fabric. Also, as my pieces are all triangles in 2 different shapes, I measured to see what size strip I would need to cut, again saving lots of excess wasted fabrics. I found by marking the main pattern section with a line down the center, I was able to position the fabric so it was in the correct position and direction. I found triangles can be a bear but now it's going much smoother and faster. As this pattern calls for 8 different fabrics, I was putting the wrong fabric in the wrong place so I started writing down the letter of the fabric on the backside which again saved me a lot of having to rip it out and redo it with the correct fabric. I'm now halfway done on the pattern. Today as we're losing our power for 4+ hours, I decided it was a great time to start tearing off the paper on the 3 rows I've completed.

Good luck on your PP, I actualy enjoy doing PP projects but don't do enough of them.